Falana Reportedly Withdraws from Representing PFIPC’s Adeyemi as Trial Continues

Prominent human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), is reported to have withdrawn from representing Mathew Adeniyi Adeyemi, who describes himself as the Director-General of the controversial PFIPC, amid developments surrounding the ongoing case.

Falana had earlier indicated his willingness to represent Adeyemi following the latter’s allegations involving the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, and matters relating to the operations of the organisation.

However, sources familiar with the case said that the Senior Advocate of Nigeria subsequently stepped back from the representation after encountering challenges in obtaining information and documentation he considered necessary for the defence.

According to the sources, Adeyemi was unable to provide some of the documents and supporting materials requested by the legal team to prepare his case. The sources further claimed that these difficulties influenced Falana’s reported decision to discontinue his involvement.

The sources also alleged that efforts had been made to facilitate Adeyemi’s appearance before the court, but he did not attend earlier proceedings. Adeyemi was later arrested in Osun State after law enforcement authorities had declared him wanted in connection with the case.

At the proceedings of July 14, 2026, before the Federal High Court, Abuja, Falana did not appear as counsel for Adeyemi. The defendant was also absent, prompting the court to issue a bench warrant for his arrest.

As of the time of filing this report, neither Falana nor his law chambers had issued an official statement confirming or denying his reported withdrawal from the case. Efforts to obtain comments from the Senior Advocate were unsuccessful.

The case has continued to attract public attention amid concerns over organisations allegedly presenting themselves as government-affiliated institutions without official authorisation. The matter has been adjourned until September 30, 2026, for further proceedings